Jooni
Dogwood
3 Species
Species
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer weekly or solid organic fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring and summer). When leaves appear pale, supplement with ferric fertilizer. Reduce fertilizing in fall and winter during the tree's rest period. For optimal growth in spring, you can increase nitrogen levels.
For flowering dogwoods like Cornus florida, provide additional phosphorus during the pre-flowering period to encourage robust blooms. Most dogwood species respond well to organic fertilizers that release nutrients slowly, helping maintain consistent growth without burning the roots.
Placement
Position your dogwood bonsai in bright light but protect it from intense afternoon sun. Good air circulation is essential, but shield from strong winds. During summer's peak heat, provide afternoon shade. Keep outdoors year-round, but protect roots from frost when temperatures drop below 15°F (-10°C). Indoor placement should focus on bright locations away from heating/cooling vents.
For optimal flowering, ensure the tree receives adequate morning sunlight - this is particularly important for species like Cornus kousa and Cornus florida. The combination of proper light exposure and seasonal temperature variations helps trigger natural blooming cycles.
Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Allow new shoots to extend to 4-5 nodes before cutting back to 1-2 leaf pairs. Major branch pruning should be done after flowering. When developing the tree's structure, focus on creating well-defined pads while maintaining adequate space for air and light penetration.
Development pruning can be more aggressive as dogwoods are generally strong growers. However, avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall as this might stimulate new growth that won't harden off before winter. Remove crossing branches and interior growth to maintain the tree's aesthetic and health.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring using a well-draining soil mix. For most dogwood species, use a mixture of equal parts akadama, pumice, and lava rock. Cornelian cherries prefer slightly alkaline soil, so add some limestone gravel to their mix. Older specimens can go longer between repottings.
When repotting, trim up to 1/3 of the roots but ensure enough remain to support the tree. Consider the species' specific soil pH preferences - Cornus florida and Cornus kousa prefer slightly acidic soil, while Cornus mas tolerates more alkaline conditions.
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top layer of soil begins to dry, but avoid overwatering. Maintain consistent moisture without letting the soil become waterlogged. Reduce watering frequency in winter but never allow the soil to completely dry out. Consider your species' specific needs - Cornus florida prefers more consistent moisture than Cornus mas.
Use room temperature water and ensure good drainage. During active growth periods, check moisture levels daily as dogwoods can be sensitive to drought stress. Increase humidity through misting or humidity trays, especially after repotting.